Section 479 BNSS — release of long-detained undertrials
2024–ongoing
Verified 21 May 2026 · Data dated 21 May 2026
Fresh · 8d ago
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Section 479, in force from July 2024, requires release of undertrial prisoners who have served one-third of the maximum sentence for non-capital offences (one-half for first-time offenders).
Outcomes
The Supreme Court has pushed state governments to identify eligible prisoners; tens of thousands are estimated to qualify. India's pre-trial detainee share — among the world's highest at ~75% — should drop materially if fully implemented.
Sources
Last verified 21 May 2026. This is editorial; we hand-curate this section. Spotted an error? Submit a correction.